Ruth Graham, author, speaker and daughter of evangelist Billy Graham, spoke in chapel at Charleston Southern University on March 18.

She used the example of the Apostle Paul to illustrate an effective life. Paul had many experiences and was broken but not defeated. “Paul admired the toughness of the military and athletes,” she said. “He went full tilt through life.”

“Life is a struggle,” Graham said. “Forgiveness gives us an opportunity to practice a divine quality.”

She talked about the “five fingers of forgiveness” to emphasize how believers should live:

• Thumb: Teachable. “Eighty-seven percent of Americans have running shoes but don’t run,” she said. “We don’t have the discipline.” Instead, we should wrestle with the questions of life and be lifelong learners.

• Index finger: Integrity. Graham said it is the tiny things that can damage us. “You need to find a mentor, a person of integrity and conviction, so you won’t be thrown by the problems of life.”

• Middle finger: Merciful. Be kind to yourself and to others. Everyone needs grace.

• Ring finger: Reverent. “If we are in Christ,” said Graham, “God sees us as righteous.” We need to rely on God’s word and seek His wisdom.

• Little finger: Loyal. We are not alone; we have a commander who will help us.

Graham is the author of several books, including “In Every Pew Sits a Broken Heart,” “Fear Not Tomorrow, God Is Already There” and “A Legacy of Love.” She has three grown children and nine grandchildren and lives in Shenandoah, Va.